“We’re still definitely one of the smaller breweries … but it’s a lot of fun and we continue to be creative and do new things to keep our customers intrigued and coming back all the time,” he said.

Witch's Hat Brewing Co. received the most votes in Metro Detroit for MLive's search for Michigan's Best Brewery. We will visit the South Lyon brewery, along with three other Metro Detroit finalists Sept. 19.Courtesy image

The 1,600-square-foot brewery – named after the South Lyon train station that is shaped like a Witch’s Hat – can brew up to 600 barrels a year, or about 18,600 gallons, with its three and a half barrel system. And just as much as it prides itself on its signature beers – Big Doedish, Trainhopper IPAs and Edward’s portly brown — it also has a signature atmosphere and “sense of community," according to Ryan.

“I think that’s what sets us apart and what helps us,” he said.

At the beginning, the two made it a point to know their customers’ names, but as their beer club membership has grown to about 600 people, it’s a bit more difficult.

The mug club glasses are also unique. Instead of a pint glass or engraved mug, each is a custom glass blown by the Glass Academy in Dearborn.

During the “tour de beer,” we will be looking for the brewery with the best overall experience, including the variety of beer they produce, quality of menu (if food is offered), ambiance and the staff's craft beer IQ.